The Pennsylvania Turnpike reports that motorists traveling on the Northeastern Extension (I-476) north from Mahoning Valley (Exit #74) and south from Pocono (Exit #95) should be prepared for slow-moving traffic and a stoppage of no more than 20 minutes between 12:45 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. today, March 25.

The stoppage, scheduled to occur at 1:00 p.m. will allow the demolition of the rock slope adjacent to the northbound Turnpike without jeopardizing worker and motorist safety.

Starting at approximately 12:45 p.m., State Police and Turnpike maintenance personnel will stop motorists northbound at the Mahoning Valley Interchange (Exit #74) and southbound at the Pocono Interchange (Exit #95) and begin a slow-moving pace (approximately 25 mph) bringing traffic to a complete stop northbound at milepost A86 and southbound at milepost A88 in advance of the 1:00 p.m. blast.

Motorists exiting the Hickory Run Service Plaza will be stopped on the ramp to northbound I-476.

The daytime paces with one stoppage of no more than 20-minutes are scheduled to occur within the contractor’s allowable window of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The work is weather permitting and safety related. Blasting operations could be delayed or cancelled for the protection of the traveling public and workers on the project.

Motorists are urged to obey posted speed limits and use extra caution when approaching all work areas. Construction-zone speed limits are enforceable, and fines will be doubled. For emergencies, dial *11 on your mobile device.